Register a Company in Cambodia: Practical Guide 2026

Company registration in Cambodia is open to foreign nationals and foreign companies, subject to certain conditions. Here are the main criteria:

• Nationality: No nationality restrictions for shareholders or directors. Foreigners can hold 100% of capital in most sectors.
• Minimum capital: For an LLC, the minimum capital is 1,000 USD (not required immediately but must be declared). Some regulated sectors require higher capital.
• Residence: At least one director must be a resident of Cambodia (or a local representative for branches).
• Activity: Most business activities are allowed, except those reserved for nationals (e.g., retail trade, land transport).
• Documents: Passport of shareholders/directors, proof of address, and a description of the business activity.

Since 2020, Cambodia has modernized its company registration process with the online system. Here are the main changes compared to the previous procedure:

Follow these steps to register your company in Cambodia in 2026:

1. Step 1: Choose the legal structure. Decide whether to opt for an LLC, branch, or representative office. The LLC is the most common for SMEs.
2. Step 2: Reserve the company name. Check availability on the Ministry of Commerce portal and reserve the name (free, valid for 30 days).
3. Step 3: Prepare the required documents. Gather copies of passports of shareholders and directors, proof of address (electricity bill or lease agreement), and a detailed description of the business activity.
4. Step 4: Fill out the online form. Access the portal (www.registrationservices.gov.kh) and create an account. Fill in information about the company, shareholders, and capital.
5. Step 5: Pay the registration fees. Fees vary depending on capital and company type. Payment is made online by credit card or bank transfer.
6. Step 6: Submit the application. Once payment is made, submit the application. You will receive an acknowledgment of receipt by email.
7. Step 7: Receive official documents. Within 5 to 10 business days, you will receive the registration certificate, VAT number, and Ministry of Labor registration by email.

• Administrative simplification: No need to travel to Phnom Penh for procedures. Everything is done online, saving considerable time for expats based in Siem Reap.
• Reduced timelines: Obtaining the certificate in 5-10 days allows for faster launch of business activities, especially in the tourism sector.
• Controlled costs: With registration fees between 200 and 500 USD, starting a business is accessible to small entrepreneurs and freelancers.
• Access to banking services: The registration certificate facilitates opening a professional bank account, essential for managing financial flows.
• Increased credibility: A registered company inspires trust among local and international partners and allows for signing contracts properly.

To avoid delays or rejection of your application, here are the most frequent mistakes:

• Mistake 1 — Company name already in use. Always check name availability before submitting. A rejected name delays the process by several days.
• Mistake 2 — Poorly scanned or incomplete documents. Ensure passport copies are clear and legible. Any missing document will trigger a request for additional information.
• Mistake 3 — Insufficient capital for the intended activity. Some sectors (tourism, restaurants) require a higher minimum capital. Check in advance.
• Mistake 4 — Ignoring tax obligations. Registration includes the VAT number, but you must also declare your income monthly. Do not neglect accounting.
• Mistake 5 — Not having a local representative. For branches, a resident representative in Cambodia is mandatory. Arrange this appointment before starting the procedure.